Ben Babylon Band Opens for Little River Band at Canyon Club Tonight, 11/10

Little River Band (LRB), one of the world's most popular light-rock groups for nearly four decades, is coming to Southern California for three concerts in early November: Riverside, California on November 9; Agoura Hills tonight, November 10; and San Diego on November 11. Originally from Australia, the band has sold more than 30 million albums, and is responsible for many hits including "It's a Long Way There," "Help Is on Its Way," "Reminiscing," "Lady," "Cool Change," "Lonesome Loser" and many more.

Opening for LRB tonight, November 10 at The Canyon Club in Agoura Hills will be the Ben Babylon Band (BBB), which has become increasingly popular on the Southern California festival and concert scene since 2011. Fronted by 15-year-old singer and songwriter Ben Babylon, a multi-award-winning pianist, the BBB combines elements of alternative rock, class rock and jazz in their original songs. Babylon believes his music will appeal to fans of Little River Band.

"I have always admired Little River Band," Babylon said. "Their song structures are simple but powerful, with amazing melodies. One my favorite songs of theirs is 'Reminiscing.' I am looking forward to opening for them."

Babylon's own musical style is influenced by both contemporary artists as well as classic rockers, particularly Elton John. That is not surprising, since Babylon's father, the late keyboard player Guy Babylon, was a member of the Elton John Band for 21 years.

"My songs are not all based on personal experiences; some of them come from my imagination, but I write lyrics as if I am in them," Babylon said. "Humor is also important. If you're going through something hard, laughter can help you get through it. Humor is a very serious thing."

In addition to Ben Babylon, the BBB is also comprised of guitarist Brian Schwartz, bass player Robben Bixler and drummer Alex Andrews. Babylon is working on his first album with help from members of the Elton John Band, including guitarist Davey Johnstone, drummer Nigel Olsson and percussionist John Mahon. The album's first single, "Contradiction," is currently available on iTunes and Amazon.

Little River Band will perform with America on November 9 at Fox Performing Arts Center, 3801 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside, CA 92501. Info at www.foxriversidelive.com.

Little River Band with the Ben Babylon Band will perform November 10 at The Canyon Club, 28912 Roadside Drive, Agoura Hills, CA 91301-3304. Ticket info at www.canyonclub.net.

Little River Band will perform November 11 at 4th and B, 435 B Street, San Diego, CA 92101. Ticket info at www.4thandbevents.com.